Enjoy Showcase Cinema’s Director’s Hall

The new upscale movie-going experience that is sweeping the country has made it to the Warwick Showcase. For $13.25 (no senior discounts) you can watch a movie in the smaller, more intimate Director’s Hall.

In some of the major cities, including Boston, there is assigned seating, but Warwick allows you to sit where you wish. You must be 21 to enter the theatre.

The Director’s Hall is “where the comedy club used to be,” and the drink and food menus appear to be the same used for the live theatre. Permanent seats have replaced the tables and chairs down front.

Waitpersons distribute menus and take orders as you arrive. Signature cocktails are available for $9.75, with three ultra specials costing $12. Beer is $5 and $6, with wine available by the glass ($7-$10) or bottle ($25-$38).

Salads are in the $10 range, while a variety of burgers are $9.99-$10.99. Other sandwiches and wraps include paninis, Reubens, BLT’s and turkey and chicken, ranging from $9.49 to $10.99. Regular concession items, like popcorn, soda, candy and ice cream are also available.

We noticed that a number of people entering the theatre had already purchased their popcorn from the concession stand and were unaware of the items available in the theatre. We also observed that people who wanted to see the movie (“The Wolf of Wall Street” on Christmas night) were unaware of what “Director’s Hall” was all about. They just came to see that movie at that time, and were surprised by the increased cost.

The good news is that you don’t have to contend with children, or even teenagers with their cell phones. The bad news is that you will pay a little more.